Getting To Know: TAGAYTAY (The City On The Ridge)

Tagaytay Highlands

BECAUSE OF its cooler climate and fresher environment, Tagaytay is considered the closest alternative to the temperate climate of Baguio. It is frequented by visitors from Manila who are mainly reatreating from the polluted air of the city. The town’s focal attraction is the presence of this miniature-like volcano that is sitting in the middle of Taal lake. According to history, its bizarre location evolved from its huge eruptions that created a crater lake then another crater lake within that lake and another lake within that crater and it, as well has a small island. Widely known as the smallest volcano in the world, Taal Volcano is a scenic view that can be seen from the stretching slopes of Tagaytay highways elevated at 2500 ft. above sea level.

Taal Volcano Crater

Trekking up to the volcano crater is a worthy experience. Many guided tours are oftenly operated by resorts nearby. Though if you want to go without them, the best access is from Talisay. Bancas are available for transfer up to the island where horses also are chartered for tourists who may hesitate to walk up to the crater. The uphill hike takes about1 hour. Bring enough water, wear comfortable shoes and expect strong dusty winds throught out the hike. The water can be rough in the afternoon, so it is best to depart in the morning. Be aware, however, of those people that may run after your cars offering boat rides or trekking guides. They are nuisance and may only cause you troubles and lose of time. It is always advised to go there with ample information of the place and activities to do.

Cable Cars at the Tagaytay Highlands

For experienced mountaineers planning to head further deep into the volcano crater, be cautious of the hot surroundings and its sulfuric emissions from the steam vents. The hot water of the crater can cause severe skin irritation due to its high concentration of harmful chemicals. And last but most importantly, the volcano may look peaceful from a far but don’t forget that it can erupt anytime. To avoid traffic in the narrow highways of Tagaytay and clogged parking areas on weekends, visit the place during the week.

Relax at Sonia's Garden

Tagaytay is a peaceful getaway from the fast lanes of urban life. Its cool natural ambiance yields an abundant display of fruits and vegetables mostly seen along the highway or at the busy market of the town.

To get there, via south super highway, exit to Silang and follow the signboard to Tagaytay. The highway heads straight to Tagaytay City. It is a preferred route because of lesser traffic.

Getting To Know: ANGELES, PAMPANGA

A View of Mt Arayat

LOCATED ON THE flat sandy lands of Pampanga, the city of Angeles can be easily reached through the North Expressway. Along the way, a lone volcano called Mt. Arayat is visibly rising in the middle of paddy fields of Magalang, east of Angeles. Contrary to how it looks from the outside, it has an interior of dense rainforest speckled with springs, streams and small falls. The trek to the summit offers stunning views of the central plains. The National Park has picnic areas equipped with swimming pools supplied by the free-flowing spring water of Mt. Arayat. To get there, take the north expressway , exit to Magalang and at the toll booth turn left with signs to Magalang, and Mt. Arayat National Park. Before heading up, you will be requested to register at the National Park Office. Bring enough supply of liquid for you and your guides. The trek starts from the Carabao logging trail to the interior passing through some springs and tiny falls. It takes about 7- 9 hours to reach the summit depending on your pace. Spend the night in the summit and head down the next day.

Crater lake of Mt. Pinatubo

After the massive eruption of the sleeping Mt. Pinatubo, several attractions within the area came out. Mountaineers and hikers in search for a diverse adventure bravely climb this delicate landform. Pinatubo trails vary all the time due to shifts in ground formations. Despite of uncertain conditions still Mt. Pinatubo is a favorite destination. On a fair weather, the hike is advised to start from Sapang Bato, a few km ride from the city. Then initiate from Target, an aeta resettlement area where you will be asked to register and pay a certain amount. A tour guide costs about 300Php and very necessary. It is best not to push through during rainy season. However the hike through lahar can be extremely dusty and exhausting during dry season. Be sure to have enough water supply as the trek might take time on steep areas. An inviting 2km wide crater lake of deep colored blue water awaits for a warm swim. This summit offers a commnanding views of the eroded terrains.